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Vitiligo is a condition that destroys the body’s pigment-producing cells, resulting in white patches on the skin. It is classified as an autoimmune disorder and can affect the eyes and mucous membranes. Treatment options include light therapy and medication, and psychological effects should be considered. Coexisting conditions such as anemia and lupus may also be present.
Vitiligo affects the skin, eyes and mucous membranes by destroying the body’s pigment-producing cells. The most obvious results of this condition are white patches in areas where the skin does not produce enough pigment. This is not a serious condition, but research doctors are still studying methods for proper diagnosis, treatments, coexisting diseases, and psychological side effects.
Our hair, eyes and skin are colored by a pigment called melanin. This material is constantly being broken down and replaced, so it must be replenished by cells called melanocytes. Melanocytes produce and distribute the right amount of melanin, but for people with Vitiligo this process is disrupted.
As scientists have found, this disorder destroys melanocytes for unknown reasons. They classified it as an autoimmune disorder because no external cause seems to be responsible. In autoimmune disorders, your body mistakes itself for an enemy intruder and wages war on those “enemy” cells. Your malfunctioning immune system keeps attacking your own cells; in this case, melanocytes.
The most common symptom of Vitiligo is pale or white patches of skin anywhere on the body. These are commonly found in areas that receive a lot of sunlight, such as the face, back of the neck, forearms, hands and feet. They can also affect other areas, such as under the arms and genitals. For the most part, the symptoms are the most serious aspect of this condition and doctors direct their treatment towards this aspect.
If you suspect you have this ailment, be sure to go to your doctor for an official diagnosis and consultation. You can expect a physical exam of your skin from a dermatologist. At this stage of research, there are a number of different courses of treatment, ranging from light therapy to oral medications to strong sunscreen.
Because this disorder appears to affect young people more than the elderly, doctors cite the psychological effects of the disease as a major concern. A person with a visible difference in skin coloration, called depigmentation, may be influenced to view their body as unhealthy, disabled, or unattractive. Doctors encourage young people to see a psychologist to help with this reaction.
Vitiligo may indicate to the doctor another coexisting condition often seen with depigmentation. Anemia, lupus, and hyperthyroidism are often found in people with vitiligo. Genetics is also likely to blame, as the condition appears to run in families. Unfortunately, the condition usually gets worse over time. However, it is certainly not contagious.
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